A gait belt (transfer belt) is a sturdy strap secured around a person's waist that gives the caregiver a safe, secure handhold during standing, walking, and transfers. Gripping the belt instead of the person's arms or clothing protects fragile skin and shoulder joints and gives you real control if they start to sink or sway. Correct use means placing the belt over clothing at the waist, snug enough to fit only flat fingers underneath, and holding it with an underhand grip from the side or slightly behind. A gait belt is for guiding and steadying — it is never used to haul a person's full weight off the floor.
A gait belt is a sturdy strap worn around the waist that gives a caregiver a secure handhold during standing, walking, and transfers. It should sit over clothing at the natural waist, snug enough tha…